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Content and Language Integrated Learning recommended by Conradh na Gaeilge to be implemented from September 2019

Conradh na Gaeilge welcome an announcement made by State Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh that Content and Language Integrated Learning will be implemented in 22 schools and early education centres from September 2019.  This partial-immersive learning approach will mean that PE and some other subjects will be taught through Irish in English medium schools taking part in the scheme.

Conradh na Gaeilge recommended partial immersion in 2008 as part of the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language, and in 2015 recommended that it be made a priority in the Government Five Year Action Plan for the Irish language.  The organisation has canvassed continuously for over 10 years, asking for cooperation from the Department of Education and Skills and Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in implementing this scheme.

General Secretary of Conradh na Gaeilge Julian de Spáinn says;
“We were very pleased when our recommendation that subjects such as PE could be taught through the medium of Irish was taken into account when the 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language, and the Government’s Five Year Action Plan for the Irish Language were being compiled. We continued canvassing to ensure that the Government would act on this recommendation and we are delighted to hear today that the Content and Language Integrated Learning Plan will be implemented in 22 schools and early education centres from September.

There will be a committee steering this scheme, and we believe that there should be public representation on the committee.  This is a request that came from the public, and their input and voices should be heard as this scheme develops.”

President of Conradh na Gaeilge Dr. Niall Comer says;
“We welcome this progress and achievement.  It goes to show that canvassing is worthwhile, and that it is important to promote the views of the public so that their aims can be achieved.

We would also like to recognise the work done for the past few years by Gael-Taca, to promote and implement partial immersion, despite lack of support from the Government. The Government should incorporate Gael-Taca’s experience when developing this new Plan.”

Content and Language Integrated Learning will be introduced in to schools around the country from the beginning of the school year 2019/2020.  Conradh na Gaeilge will continue to follow and support the development of the scheme.

 

 

Conradh na Gaeilge

6 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2.
Phone: +353 (0) 1 475 7401, Fax: +353 (0) 1 475 7844, Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.